Faculty Handbook & Constitution - Lee University

_________________LEE UNIVERSITY FACULTY HANDBOOK & CONSTITUTION_________________resolution cannot be achieved in such discussions, the student has the right to appeal, inperson or in writing, to the employee’s supervisor.Each supervisor is committed to assist in resolving problems and complaints inaccordance with professional standards. These standards include respect for thedifferences in viewpoints that inevitably characterize situations of disagreement,protection of rights of students to seek clarifications of policy or changes in policy, anddelivery of satisfactory services in accordance with stated program objectives.Limitations on Off–Campus EmploymentFull–time teachers must have prior permission from their school dean to engage inteaching at another educational institution during the regular academic year, or to servein a paid staff position at any church agency or local congregation. All off–campusemployment during normal working hours is prohibited except by permission of the VicePresident for Academic Affairs.Notice of Retirement or DepartureThe university is committed to providing timely advance notice to non–tenured facultymembers if the institution is not extending another contract. A reasonable effort will bemade to give faculty members who will not be given a contract renewal for the followingacademic year a semester’s notice. The university expects faculty members who plan toresign to provide a full semester’s notice if the faculty member is not tenured. Tenuredfaculty are asked to notify the administration of tentative retirement plans twelve monthsin advance, if possible, and, at the latest, by December 1 of the last regular contractyear.Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or NeglectAccording to Tennessee law (T.C.A. 37-1-605), ANY PERSON who has knowledge ofor suspects abuse or neglect of a child MUST report it IMMEDIATELY. It must bereported to either the Department of Children’s Services, the local sheriff, or the localpolice department. The law makes no distinction between professionals and nonprofessionalson the issue of reporting (including doctors, mental health professionals,children care providers, dentists, ministers, family members, and friends). Failure toreport child abuse or neglect is a violation of the law, and subjects the person failing toreport to criminal penalties. Reports of abuse/neglect or suspected abuse/neglect areconfidential.If a university employee believes that a child has been abused or neglected, theyshould call 877-237-004 anytime to report it. In Tennessee, a person is considered alegal adult at 18 years old.MisconductLee University follows in the tradition set by other institutions of higher learning tomaintain a tradition of integrity, honesty, professionalism and dignity and appreciates thesupport of all employees. Therefore, the University sets forth the following policyregarding the reporting and investigation of any acts of unprofessional or illegal conduct.All employees of the university are required to report any alleged or suspectedunprofessional or illegal activity directly to the President or an individual appointeddirectly by the President for this purpose. Unprofessional or illegal activity is notcondoned and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any of the university’s5 - 26 Responsibilities of the Faculty